The Golden Buttons

About This Movie

The Golden Buttons is a raw peek into the lives of teenagers training at a presidential cadet school under Putin's National Guard program. This documentary has this somber, reflective tone that lingers long after viewing. The pacing feels almost meditative at times, allowing the viewer to really absorb the weight of these young lives and the aspirations they carry. Alex Evstigneev's cinematography captures both the discipline of the school and the humanity within these future heroes. It's a fascinating exploration of duty and identity, albeit heavy on the propaganda side. The kids’ performances feel genuine, torn between youthful dreams and the rigidity of their training. It's distinctive for its unvarnished look at a controversial institution and the raw emotions of its subjects.

Cinematic portrayal of youth and dutyCaptures raw emotions and personal strugglesInsight into contemporary Russian military culture